WARM AIR FIT FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

Warm air heating systems were a popular choice for
housebuilders in the 1960’s and 70’s. They were cost
effective to install as part of the original property
design and offered robust operation. In fact, warm air
heaters have a longer predicted lifespan than wet
central heating systems that can require constant
protection from the corrosive effects of water. Johnson
& Starley, a market leader in warm air heating systems,
is now involved in many upgrading and replacement
projects that give homeowners the opportunity to benefit
from the advances made in this often overlooked
technology.

A large number of original warm air heating systems are
still in working order today, albeit with out-of-date
technology. Until 2008, the householder from Kettering,
Northamptonshire had such a heater in her 1970’s-built
semi-detached house. She was prompted to upgrade, not
because the system failed, but simply to take advantage
of the benefits offered by modern designs. The Johnson &
Starley Hi-Spec J25 gas-fired heater selected for her
house is a compact model, perfect for replacing early
heaters. It is also more energy efficient than the
existing heater with a maximum output of 25,000 Btu/h
and an air modulation control system

The installation was undertaken by Chris Watts of DC
Heating who recommended the Johnson & Starley
replacement warm air heater. “Johnson & Starley products
are renowned for their build quality and reliability,”
he explains. “Their warm air systems are very quick and
easy to install as the existing flue and space for
ducting can be utilised. The system took just half a day
to install. If I do need technical support, Johnson &
Starley always provide immediate advice.”

When updating a warm air heating system, it is not
unusual for a householder to consider conversion to a
radiator system, despite the greater expense and
disruption involved. However, modern Johnson & Starley
warm air system offers several very real advantages. Not
only are installation costs half those of a wet central
heating system, they are easily installed and have long
life expectancy. Furthermore, a warm air system rapidly
reaches target temperature and there is no need to
rearrange furniture or room layouts to free up wall
space to accommodate bulky radiators.

Johnson & Starley warm air heaters also offer the option
of cleanflow. This is a highly efficient, electronically
enhanced filter that attracts dust, smoke pollen and
other air pollutants. It works by polarising the filter
media which electronically cleans the air and removed
the particles as it passes through the heater. Cleanflow
will remove 95% of particles down to 1 micron and can be
retro fitted to existing heaters.